The last-gen InReach Mini 2 might require a subscription to use, but we guarantee it’s far more durable than your phone. | Image: Garmin REI’s annual Anniversary Sale — the retailer’s biggest of the year — has arrived, bringing with it discounts on all kinds of outdoor essentials. If you’ve...
The last-gen InReach Mini 2 might require a subscription to use, but we guarantee it’s far more durable than your phone. | Image: Garmin REI’s annual Anniversary Sale — the retailer’s biggest of the year — has arrived, bringing with it discounts on all kinds of outdoor essentials. If you’ve got a camping trip coming up, now is a good time to stock up on the basics, whether it be a tent, sleeping pad, or stove. If your summer plans involve hiking or heading into the backcountry, there are also savings to be had on everything from Garmin watches to water filters, some of which are also on discount at retailers like Amazon.The sale runs through May 25th, and to save you time scrolling, we’ve rounded up the best deals below. Additionally, as in previous years, REI members get 20 percent off one full-price item or one REI Outlet item with code ANNIV26, giving those who pay for a lifetime membership ($30) even more ways to save in the run-up to Memorial Day.Smartwatches and fitness trackersGarmin Fenix 8The Garmin Fenix 8 is a premium multisport watch that features a speaker, mic, and on-device assistant for calls, timers, and voice commands. It also offers elite battery life, dual-frequency GPS, and robust sensors. Read our review.Where to Buy: $999.99 $749.99 at Amazon (43mm) $1099.99 $849.99 at Walmart (51mm) $1099.99 $849.99 at REI (47mm)Amazfit Active 2The Amazfit Active 2 delivers outsized value for the price. It looks spiffy and has a wide array of health tracking features, plus built-in GPS and AI chatbots to provide extra context to your data. Read our review.Where to Buy: $99.99 $89.99 at Best Buy $99.99 $84.99 at REI $99.99 $84.99 at TargetGarmin’s Venu 4 is geared toward the average athlete, and it’s on sale at REI, Amazon, and Best Buy in both size configurations for $499.99 ($50 off), matching its best price to date. The wearable offers many of the same health and fitness tracking features as its predecessor, the Venu 3S, including abnormal heart rate alerts, detailed sleep insights, audio-guided meditation sessions, and a wheelchair mode. It introduces new wellness features, though, including the ability to track caffeine and alcohol intake, as well as Garmin Coach, so you can tailor workouts based on your fitness history, sleep quality, and recovery.REI, Amazon, and Best Buy are also selling the Garmin Lily 2 Active for $249.99 ($50 off), which is its lowest price to date. The stylish smartwatch is a great budget-friendly Garmin, especially for people with smaller wrists. Like the standard Lily 2, it offers basic fitness tracking, notifications, and up to five days of battery life; however, the so-called “Active” model adds a physical button, built-in GPS, and support for more sports tracking. Read our Lily 2 review.If you want more accurate heart rate tracking than most smartwatches offer, Polar’s H10 is on sale at REI and Amazon for $94.49 ($10 off), which is one of its better prices in recent months. Unlike wrist-based trackers, the chest strap records your heart rate directly from your chest for more precise readings during workouts. The lightweight sensor also pairs with a wide range of fitness apps, smartwatches, gym equipment, and other devices via Bluetooth, and it’s water-resistant enough for swimming.Communication and safety gearGarmin inReach Mini 2Garmin’s palm-sized inReach Mini 2 satellite communicator offers off-the-grid two-way messaging, built-in navigation capabilities, and powerful mapping features, including the ability to set waypoints when paired with Garmin’s Explore app. A subscription plan is required to access the Iridium network, though, with prices starting at $7.99 a month.Where to Buy: $399.99 $249.99 at Amazon $399.99 $249.99 at REI $399.99 $249.99 at GarminGarmin’s InReach Messenger Plus is on sale at REI, Amazon, and direct from Garmin for $299.99 ($100 off), its lowest prices to date. The subscription-based Plus model provides satellite connectivity and access to emergency services like the aforementioned InReach Mini 2, except it can also send photos and audio clips in addition to standard text messages.Garmin’s newer InReach Mini 3 is also available from REI, Amazon, and Garmin for $399.99 ($100 off), its best price to date. Like the Mini 2, the rugged, palm-sized satellite communicator lets you send texts, share your location, check the weather, and trigger SOS alerts when you’re off the grid, all while offering battery life that can outlast your average smartphone. Unlike its predecessor, though, it features a color touchscreen, which makes it’s much easier to scroll through menus and bang out messages.Garmin InReach Mini 3 PlusThe Mini 3 Plus is identical to the standard model in that it allows you to stay connected while off the grid; however, it also features an audible siren and the ability to send photos and voice messages, in addition to standard texts.Where to Buy: $499.99 $449.99 at Amazon $499.99 $449.99 at REI $499.99 $449.99 at GarminThe Chapter MIPS Bike Helmet is on sale starting at around $112 ($41 off) at Amazon and REI, which nearly matches its best price to date. The lightweight helmet features a hidden PopLock for securing it with a U-lock or chain. It also features a sleek visor and a Micro-USB taillight with 30 lumens of brightness, one that will automatically turn on when magnetically attached to the helmet.Garmin’s Varia RTL515 Radar Taillight is on sale at REI and Amazon for $149.99 ($50 off), nearly matching its lowest price to date. The headlight combines a bright LED light with a rearview radar that, when paired with a compatible device, warns you of cars approaching from behind from up to 153 yards away.Portable Bluetooth speakersJBL Charge 6The Charge 6 is a robust, IP68-rated portable speaker with up to 28 hours of battery life and support for lossless audio over USB-C. Like the JBL Flip 7, it can also analyze your audio to deliver clearer, louder sound and reduce distortion at higher volumes.Where to Buy: $199.95 $159.95 at Amazon $199.95 $159.95 at Best Buy $199.95 $159.99 at REIYou can buy JBL’s Flip 7 speaker for $99.95 ($50 off) at REI, Amazon, and Best Buy, which matches its best price to date. The portable gadget features several upgrades over its predecessor, including a more rugged design, an enhanced tweeter, and an additional two hours of playtime. It also features JBL’s AI Sound Boost technology, which can boost the speaker’s volume without introducing distortion. An IP68 rating, meanwhile, means you can use it by the pool, while a PushLock system lets you attach interchangeable accessories like the included wrist strap.If you want an even smaller portable speaker, JBL’s Clip 5 is on sale for around $59 ($20 off) at REI, Amazon, and Best Buy, which is $10 shy of its all-time low. The Bluetooth speaker features an integrated carabiner that makes it easy to clip onto a backpack, bike, or beach bag, along with an IP67 waterproof and dustproof rating. It also offers up to 12 hours of battery life, so it should easily last you the day.Cooking equipmentMSR PocketRocket 2 StoveThe PocketRocket 2 is a single-burner canister stove that can boil water in as little as three and a half minutes. It’s lightweight, foldable, and compatible with most isobutane-propane fuel canisters, making it a great pick for backpackers looking to shed weight.Where to Buy: $59.95 $44.89 at REILifeStraw Peak Series StrawLifeStraw’s redesigned Peak Series Straw features a durable, leakproof design that’s great for backcountry treks. It can remove unwanted viruses, bacteria, and microplastics as you drink — just like the base model — but benefits from an increased flow rate and more premium materials.Where to Buy: $24.95 $18.69 at Amazon $24.95 $18.69 at REIIf you’re looking for a more convenient, all-in-one solution, the LifeStraw Go Series 1L is also on sale for an all-time low of around $34 ($11 off) at REI and Amazon. The BPA-free water bottle features a built-in two-stage filtration system, including a carbon filter that’s designed to reduce odors and improve taste, making it a solid pick for everything from travel to your daily commute.It’s not the most exciting thing in the world, but the GoBites Bio-Uno Long spork is on sale at REI in multiple colors for a cool $5.93 (about $3 off). The Verge’s Brandon Widder has used the sturdy, BPA-free utensil in the backcountry numerous times over the years, mainly because it’s relatively lightweight and saves you from having to pack more than one tool for devouring whatever freeze-dried concoction you opted for.JetBoil MiniMo Cooking SystemJetBoil’s cooking systems aren’t for ultra-light backpackers; however, the MiniMo is incredibly straightforward to use, comes with a 1-liter pot, and heats water in as little as two minutes, making it suitable for everything from freeze-dried meals to a well-deserved cup of cocoa.Where to Buy: $179.99 $107.93 at REI $179.99 $116.99 at JetBoilColeman Cascade Classic Camp StoveColeman’s go-to stove provides everything you need for simple, reliable camp cooking. It’s got enough power to handle most meals, as well as a pair of burners for cooking multiple things at once. It also features a matchless push-button igniter and built-in wind guards.Where to Buy: $130 $87.99 at Coleman $130 $97.49 at REIColeman’s Cascade 3-in-1 Stove is on sale for around $204.99 ($70 off) at REI, Backcountry, and Coleman’s online storefront. It’s a better pick for campers who want to cook a little more than basic meals on a standard two-burner stove. In addition to two adjustable burners with wind guards and matchless ignition, it comes with interchangeable grill and griddle attachments, making it easier to cook things like eggs and burgers without packing extra gear.The BearVault BV500 Journey is on sale for around $79.89 ($20 off) from both REI and Campman. The hard-sided bear canister is designed to keep wildlife out of your food while offering 11.5 liters of storage, which is enough for about a week’s worth of meals and snacks. Despite its rugged build, it’s relatively lightweight, and the screw-top lid is designed to be secure without requiring complicated tools. As an added bonus, it also doubles as a makeshift camp stool.Shelter, sleep, and furnitureKelty Low LoveseatThe Kelty Low Loveseat is a sturdy, low-profile camp chair built for two. It features a steel frame, a padded seat, and extra-large cup holders for your drinks or gear. It also includes a padded roll-tote storage bag, making it easy to transport when it’s folded down.Where to Buy: $149.95 $112.39 at REI $149.95 $112.39 at BackcountryExped MegaMat DuoThe MegaMat Duo is a four-inch, self-inflating mattress that’s become one of our favorites thanks to its extra-wide design. It uses a combination of open-cell polyurethane foam and generous padding for comfort, which helps keep you warm when temperatures dip. It also makes for a stellar air mattress for guests.Where to Buy: $399.95 $299.89 at REI (medium) $549.95 $412.39 at REI (queen) $449.95 $337.39 at REI (long wide)A small, compact chair is nice to have for lounging by the campfire, and REI’s Flexlite Camp Chair is a great option now that it’s down to $67.39 (about $22 off) in multiple colors at REI. It features an aluminum frame, a stable four-leg design, and a ripstop polyester seat with water and stain resistance. When you’re done, it can also quickly fold down into a drawstring bag, so you can throw it in your car or tent.You can get the Therm-a-Rest Z Lite Sol for $44.89 ($11 off) at REI right now. It’s a relatively lightweight, compact sleeping pad with an accordion-style design that lets you attach it to your backpack. The closed-cell foam also provides comfort after a long day of hiking, while the sleeping pad’s surface helps reflect radiant heat back to your body, so you can stay warm in the fall.Half Dome 2 Tent (with footprint)REI’s inexpensive, three-season tent is easy to set up and offers plenty of space for two people, with built-in pockets for stowing gear and large roll-up doors. It’s certainly not the lightest offering you can buy, but at this price, it’s an easy recommendation for first-time backpackers and anyone looking for a solid tent for car camping.Where to Buy: $329 $197.39 at REI (gray) $329 $246.69 at REI (green) $329 $246.69 at REI (gold)Rumpl Original Puffy BlanketRumpl’s classic lightweight blanket features synthetic insulation for warmth, a weather-resistant outer shell, and a stuff sack. It also comes in an array of attractive designs and pairs with Rumpl’s Cape Clip, so you can wear it hands-free.Where to Buy: $99.95 $74.89 at REI (one-person) $99.95 $74.89 at Rumpl (one-person) $199.95 $143.94 at REI (two-person)REI is currently selling its Magma 30 Sleeping Bag in a variety of sizes starting at $209.39 ($139 off). The bag uses 850-fill-power, water-resistant down for warmth and weighs under 20 ounces, depending on the size, making it a great budget pick if you’re looking to get into ultralight backpacking. It also includes a hood to help retain heat, extra room around the feet, and a terrific zipper design that’s less likely to snag when you’re crawling in or out.REI is selling GCI’s Freestyle Rocker Chair for $47.93 ($32 off). It’s a more comfortable alternative to your average camping chair, one that rocks and can handle both hard and soft ground. It also features padded armrests, a built-in beverage holder, and a foldable design, which makes it easy to throw in the back of your car before heading out the door.REI Siesta Hooded 20 Sleeping BagThe Siesta prioritizes comfort with a roomy rectangular shape that gives you space to stretch out. The synthetic sleeping bag features an insulated hood — one that’s spacious enough to accommodate a real pillow — along with multiple zipper configurations so you can vent your feet or fully unzip it into a quilt-like blanket.Where to Buy: $149 $111.69 at REI (medium) $159 $119.19 at REI (long)Headlamps and camp lightingBioLite Site LightsBioLite’s ultra-versatile Site Light kit comes with six weatherproof bulbs, which can illuminate up to 1,000 square feet when hung or properly staked. You don’t need to bring a charger, either, as the included carrying case doubles as a solar charger for the lights.Where to Buy: $99.95 $74.89 at Amazon $99.95 $74.89 at BioLite $99.95 $74.89 at REIBlack Diamond Spot 400 HeadlampBlack Diamond’s 400-lumen headlamp offers adjustable brightness, a red night vision mode, and an IPX8 waterproof rating, so it can handle rainy nights. It’s also dual-fuel compatible, meaning you can use standard AAA batteries or use it in tandem with Black Diamond’s rechargeable BD 1500 Li-ion battery for added flexibility.Where to Buy: $49.95 $44.96 at Black Diamond $49.95 $44.89 at REIThe Petzl Tikka is on sale at REI for $19.73 (about $15 off). The basic headlamp is a great option that features a max output of 350 lumens, tilt functionality, and an IPX4 rating, making it safe to use in light rain. It also features a lock function that prevents it from accidentally turning on when packed.The Nite Ize Radiant 314 — which is currently down to $31.73 (about $13 off) at REI — provides 314 lumens of brightness, an impact-resistant design, and an IPX4 rating for water resistance. The rechargeable lantern can also last up to 96 hours on a single charge, while the built-in power bank can provide an extra boost of power to your phone in a pinch.BioLite’s Luci Charge 360 is available for $44.89 ($16 off) from both REI and BioLite, which is a terrific price for the inflatable lantern. Its collapsible design makes it easy to pack, and it offers up to 360 lumens of adjustable brightness. The waterproof gadget also lasts for 50 hours on a single charge, and when it dies, it’s easy to recharge via solar power or USB-C. Plus, you can use it as a power bank, allowing you to top off your phone or other small devices when outlets aren’t nearby.Mpowerd Luci Solar String Lights: ColorMpowerd’s solar-powered string lights are perfect for camping or a backyard shindig. The 18-foot string can display six colors and last up to 15 hours on a single charge; the case also doubles as a charger, allowing you to top off your phone in a pinch.Where to Buy: $54.95 $19.83 at REIBlack Diamond Moji Plus LanternThe Moji Plus offers 200 lumens of warm, dimmable light and adjustable brightness, along with an IPX4 rating for water resistance. It also features a double-hook design and the same dual-fuel tech as the Spot 400 Headlamp, meaning you can use it with standard AAAs or Black Diamond’s rechargeable BD 1500 Li-ion battery.Where to Buy: $34.95 $26.19 at REI $34.95 $26.21 at Black DiamondMiscellaneous outdoor dealsZippo HeatBank 6 Pro Rechargeable Hand WarmerZippo’s rechargeable, IP57-rated hand warmer offers three heat settings and up to six hours of runtime. It can also serve as a 24-lumen flashlight or a 5,200 mAh power bank in a pinch, though, unlike most warmers, it’s only sold as a single unit.Where to Buy: $59.95 $34.93 at REIIf you own an older iPhone with a Lightning port, you can grab InfinityLab’s InstantGo 10,000 Power Bank for just $41.93 (about $28 off) at REI. The portable battery features a 10,000mAh capacity and a built-in Lightning cable, making it a solid all-in-one option for days when you won’t be near an outlet. It also supports passthrough charging, allowing you to charge your phone and the power bank simultaneously.
